Chapter 73 Marnie and Michael’s Twin Baby Shower: Chaos, Love, and Unexpected Guests

1172 Words
The condo was buzzing with activity. Balloons in pastel blue and soft pink floated gently against the ceiling. Streamers twisted across the walls, and a table laden with gifts, snacks, and a meticulously arranged cake stood in the corner, gleaming under the soft lights. Marnie’s eyes sparkled as she took in the scene—a perfect celebration of the twins’ impending arrival. Michael hovered nearby, clipboard in hand, ensuring that every detail was executed flawlessly. “Michael,” Marnie said softly, holding his hand as he surveyed the room like a general inspecting his troops. “Relax… it’s just a baby shower, not a military operation.” Michael turned to her, a slight frown on his face. “Marnie, this is not just any baby shower. This is the twins’ first public celebration. Everything has to be perfect. I won’t allow mistakes.” She smiled, shaking her head. “You’re ridiculous… but I love you.” Guests Begin to Arrive The first to arrive was Nina, Marnie’s best friend from Manila, who practically ran into the condo, her excitement palpable. “Marnie! Oh my gosh, everything looks amazing!” Marnie laughed, gently rubbing her belly. “Thank you… Michael helped… a lot.” Nina turned to Michael, eyes wide. “Wait, Michael? You decorated this? You organized everything?” He straightened, trying to look nonchalant. “Well… I supervised.” Nina raised an eyebrow. “Supervised?” She glanced at the slightly chaotic placement of some napkins and the slightly uneven balloon arch. “I think ‘supervised’ is a polite way to put it.” Michael cleared his throat. “It’s… character-building.” Marnie giggled, shaking her head. “He’s terrified of imperfection.” Unexpected Guests Just as the atmosphere settled into a pleasant hum of laughter and chatter, the doorbell rang again. Anthony, Marnie’s elder brother, appeared in the doorway, holding a small gift bag and wearing a huge grin. “I didn’t know this was happening today!” he exclaimed, rushing to hug Marnie. Marnie laughed as she hugged him back. “I didn’t tell anyone because I wanted it to be a surprise… for everyone, including you!” Michael appeared behind her, slightly stiff but trying to mask his nervousness. “Anthony,” he said, extending a hand. “Thank you for coming.” Anthony shook it firmly. “Of course. But… um, did you know my sister is already… advanced in pregnancy?” he asked, glancing at Michael. “She’s not exactly fragile anymore, you know.” Michael’s eyes narrowed slightly. “I’m fully aware. That’s why this celebration must be safe, controlled, and… perfect.” Anthony raised an eyebrow. “Perfect?” he repeated. “You mean like your cooking?” Michael froze. The room erupted in laughter. Marnie’s belly shook as she laughed, holding her stomach. Even Anthony chuckled. Michael muttered under his breath, cheeks reddening. “That was… irrelevant.” Games, Gifts, and Chaos The baby shower continued with games, laughter, and light chaos. Michael insisted on timing everyone’s participation, ensuring no one tripped over streamers or balloons. He even attempted to lead a diaper-changing relay game, only to realize he was competing against Marnie’s friends, who were far more experienced in baby logistics. Marnie watched him in awe. He was precise, protective, and ridiculously determined, even in a setting that should have been purely casual. She loved him even more for it. During the gift-opening session, the twins’ future wardrobe was revealed—tiny onesies, soft booties, and miniature blankets. Michael carefully arranged each gift, taking notes of who brought what. “This is for you, little ones,” he murmured, holding up a tiny blue onesie. “You will be dressed impeccably… every day. Even if you protest.” Marnie giggled, placing a hand on her belly. “You’re already obsessed, you know that?” “Obsessed?” he asked, raising an eyebrow. “I prefer… preemptively meticulous parenting.” Sweet Moments Amidst the Fun As the party continued, Michael found a moment to sit beside Marnie, taking her hand in his. “How are you holding up?” he asked softly. Marnie sighed happily. “Honestly? I feel so loved. And… so spoiled. I can’t believe you did all this for us… for me… for the twins.” Michael smiled, leaning his forehead against hers. “I promised I would protect you, care for you, and ensure the twins are welcomed into a world full of love… and order. This is just the beginning.” She laughed softly. “You sound like you’re preparing for a military mission.” “I am,” he said seriously. “A military mission of love.” The twins kicked sharply, as if in agreement, making both of them laugh. The Cake Moment Finally, it was time for the cake. A three-tiered pastel masterpiece stood proudly in the center, decorated with tiny footprints and the words “Welcome, Little Miracles” in elegant lettering. Michael leaned down, whispering to Marnie, “Are you ready for the ceremonial cutting?” She nodded, taking the knife with him. Hands together, they made the first cut into the cake, laughter and cheers filling the room. But of course, chaos ensued. A smear of frosting ended up on Michael’s cheek when one of the twins kicked, startling Marnie’s hand. He froze, then looked at her with mock horror. “You… you did that on purpose!” he exclaimed dramatically, wiping frosting off. Marnie laughed, leaning into him. “The twins have a sense of humor too.” Quiet Moments After the Guests Leave After the last of the guests departed, the condo finally quieted down. Balloons floated lazily, gifts were stacked neatly, and Michael finally allowed himself to relax. Marnie leaned back on the couch, exhausted but happy. “You know,” she said softly, “you were amazing today. Even with the little chaos.” Michael smiled, wrapping an arm around her. “Amazing? I survived. I protected. I… survived chaos.” She laughed softly. “You were more than amazing. You made today unforgettable.” Michael’s gaze softened. “That’s my job. Protect, love, care… and make sure everything goes perfectly, especially for you and the twins.” Marnie rested her head on his shoulder, feeling his chest rise and fall with steady breathing. “I think the twins already know how much you love them,” she whispered. “They do,” Michael replied, pressing a gentle kiss to her temple. “And I’ll keep proving it to them… every day, every moment, for the rest of our lives.” As they sat together, the condo bathed in the soft glow of the evening, Marnie felt a deep sense of gratitude. Michael’s overprotective, meticulous, obsessive love—it was exactly what she, and their twins, needed. For the first time, she truly believed that with him by her side, they could face any chaos, any challenge, and any adventure that life might throw their way.
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